MSU-Denver tuition policy goes into effect for undocumented students

DENVER — With fall classes beginning at Metropolitan State University of Denver, a new tuition policy for undocumented students is also going into effect.

In June, the school’s Board of Trustees approved a new tuition rate for those students. And, although the policy has come under heavy criticism from, among others, Colorado’s Attorney General, it’s full speed ahead for students like Dalia Quezada.

“There’s a lot of things to expect and you know it’s really exciting that I’m finally fulfilling this dream,” said the 18-year-old freshman. “I think I’m ready for it.”

The new tuition is slightly more than what in-state students pay but considerably less than what out-of-state students pony up.

Undocumented residents of Colorado are eligible for it, and somewhere in the neighborhood of 100 students are believed to be taking advantage of the tuition during the new semester.

“I think that Metro made a very bold decision and they have demonstrated to be a leader school,” said Quezada. She said without scholarships and the school’s special tuition she wouldn’t be able to attend college.

Opponents of the policy said such a tuition policy can only be established by law. Former Congressman and presidential candidate Tom Tancredo plans to file a lawsuit on behalf of Colorado taxpayers to stop the new tuition rate.